Sunflower, “Drop Dead Red” Seeds
Drop Dead Red is drop dead gorgeous! This is a fabulous mix of large (4″–5″), long-lasting, florist-quality flowers. ‘Moulin Rouge’, ‘Red Wave’, ‘Ruby Eclipse’, and ‘Joker’ come in several shades of red from deep burgundy and steamy valentine red, to autumnal pumpkin/orange-red, and bicolors. These tall, branching plants are ideal for the back of the garden, or as a border. Sunflowers are edible, with a bittersweet flavor. The petals add a pretty pop of color ion salads and desserts. The young, sunflower buds are edible, with a flavor similar to artichoke hearts. They can be grilled, marinated, or sauteed for an unusual appetizer or side dish. Plant only 10″ apart to produce longer stems. As a pollenless hybrid, there’ll be no more messy pollen drop from your gorgeous cut flower arrangements, but still plenty of nectar for pollinators. Drought tolerant, but best flower production with regular water.
4 gram seed packet.
Plant Vitals
When to Sow Outside: RECOMMENDED. 1 to 2 weeks after your average last frost date.
When to Start Inside: 2 to 4 weeks before your average last frost date. Sunflowers are sensitive to root disturbance; sow in biodegradable pots that can be planted directly in the ground.
Days to Emerge: 10–15 days
Seed Depth: ¼"–½"
Seed Spacing: A group of 3 seeds every 18"–24"
Thinning: When 3" tall, thin to 1 every 18"–24"